New Cabinet mod

Estancio

My 2011 T@B had both limited kitchen storage space and limited counter space. Finally I got around to making changes to the interior above the AC unit (mine is  mounted on the floor). 

Here is the original configuration. The first step was to remove the counter top from atop the AC unit. Then I built a cabinet frame to match the kitchen counter height. 

The original counter top went back atop the new cabinet. It is designed to be held in place with 4 bolts -- two on the outside by the bench seat and 2 on the inside of the closet area. 

Next it was  finding guides to fit the space and making a drawer. My guides are rated for 75 pounds and are 20" long.  The drawer is 20 inches deep and 19 inches wide and 10 inches in height. I used 1x9 poplar for the sides and 1/2" birch plywood for the bottom.

The final step was making a frame around the drawer front to give it a finished look to match the other cabinetry. I used the same brushed nickel knobs as are on all the cabinet doors.

The finished cabinet gives me much more working kitchen counter space and gives a sizable "pantry drawer" for storing food. The closet is still functional for hanging clothes. 

Just finished this today and can't wait to get on the road to try it out!

Sharon_is_SAM

Nice job.  Good use of space!

ericnliz

@Estancio, Nice clean lookin' mod! I like how you re-used the A/C top for the cabinet. Makes it look "stock". Thanks for sharing!

wizard1880

Awesome, that's some nice cabinetry work!

Question -- is there an easy way to get into the lower parts of the front (existing) cabinet?  Like, in my case the Alde coolant reservior is down there, along with some other plumbing / wiring that I may need access to.

elgolfo

Can I pay you to make one for me?Awesome mod,great woodwork,make the box,I will install and stain my self!

Runtarooti

That looks fantastic. Do you take orders? 

Estancio

Sorry, I cannot take orders as I have way too many projects of my own. I thought retirement would give me time to complete things, but I am finding the number of projects keeps increasing instead!

Estancio

UPDATE: I've been on the road for about 10 days, covering 3400 miles so far. The drawer flew out, off the tracks, and onto the camper floor one day. The "soft locks" on the tracks do not hold the drawer closed when traveling. So I have tied a rope around the knob to hold it in place, while I brainstorm for a real drawer locking device. 

QUESTION: Has anyone tried rare earth magnets to hold doors or drawers closed?

Michigan_Mike

One thought that came to mind when I read your update are the push-button style locks they are using down at the factory on the new trailers.  I do understand that this would change the look of the drawer front but thought I'd toss it out there anyway as food for thought.  

Estancio

Thanks, Mike, for the suggestion. I'll certainly consider this type lock.

Ratkity

I like the looks of the lock. The brushed stainless look is a nice touch. It also doesn't show fingerprints or gets smudged easily.

Michigan_Mike

These are the same locks incorporated into the T@B 400. Maybe with some rework on the front of your drawer you can adapt it into the new mod which really gives you added space for storage.  Good luck and keep us posted!